Skokie Lagoons — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Skokie Lagoons, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Skokie Lagoons today is 16.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 17.6°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.9°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.4°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.7°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.0°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.0°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.1°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.8°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.5°C | 18.0°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 17°C | 24°C | 31°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| November | 5°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Skokie Lagoons: Water Temperature by Location
Skokie Lagoons: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Skokie Lagoons, a shallow series of connected water bodies in northeastern Illinois, experiences wide seasonal swings in water temperature that closely follow local air temperatures. In winter the surface often approaches freezing, commonly in the low 30s °F (around 0–2 °C). Spring warming brings temperatures into the 40s–60s °F (about 4–16 °C) as ice melts and runoff dilutes and cools the water. In summer the lagoons can warm substantially, typically reaching the low to mid 70s °F and occasionally into the upper 70s or low 80s °F on hot spells (roughly 21–28 °C, sometimes up to ~29 °C). Autumn sees a steady decline, with waters cooling back into the 50s–60s °F (10–16 °C) before winter refreezes margins again. Because the lagoons are relatively shallow and bordered by vegetation, temperatures can vary across the system and change quickly after storms or heat waves.
Swimming at Skokie Lagoons is generally not permitted; the area is managed primarily for habitat conservation, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing rather than public bathing. Restrictions reflect safety concerns (cold or rapidly changing temperatures, submerged hazards, and limited lifeguard presence) and water-quality and ecological considerations, including runoff and aquatic vegetation that make designated swimming impractical. Visitors instead use the lagoons for paddling and shoreline recreation where allowed, while complying with posted rules intended to protect people and habitat.